Becoming infected with measles during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.

It can also lead to babies being born prematurely or having a low birth weight.

One NHS trust has issued guidance to pregnant women to make sure they are protected as cases continue to rise across England.

Janet Cairns, head of midwifery at Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "Now is the right time to check if you and your family are vaccinated against the risk of measles.

"GPs can advise, and give vaccines to anyone who has not been adequately protected. Two doses of the MMR vaccine can prevent more than 95% of cases of measles, mumps and rubella.

"If you are pregnant and have been in contact with someone with measles, which is infectious from a few days before the rash appears, please contact your GP or midwife, who can request a blood test to check whether you are immune."

According to NHS guidance, pregnant women who think they have come into contact with someone with measles and know they are not immune, should see their GP as soon as possible.